Aussie cyclists ride for underprivileged children

Kolkata, Feb 8 (PTI) A team of 12 Australian cyclists today set out on an eight-day journey from Kolkata to Kalimpong to raise funds for underprivileged children in India. Dr Connaughton from Perth said, the 'Cycle for Change 2013' was to raise funds for programmes in health, nutrition, education and protection of NGO Child In Need Institute. The cyclists will pedal through Ranaghat in Nadia district, Murshidabad, Suti, Gajol, Raiganj, Kishanganj and Siliguri in North Bengal covering about 670 km. The final day's challenge will be along the stunning Teesta river and then up the mountain, a 4000 feet ascent to Kalimpong, in the foothills of the Himalayas. The cyclists who have raised 50,000 Australian dollars from their blog, will approach people en route to support their cause. On their way, the riders will also visit the CINI programs in towns and villages to meet underprivileged children and their parents. PTI NIK PC DKB HKS